Overview

• An internal investigation determined that the Nyx capsule’s landing parachutes failed to deploy during re-entry, causing an uncontrolled descent and crash on June 24.
• The impact permanently destroyed over 160 Celestis space burial capsules carrying human remains and Martian Grow cannabis seeds used for microgravity research.
• Both The Exploration Company and Celestis issued formal apologies to families and participants for the irretrievable loss of their payloads.
• The companies have launched detailed inquiries and will implement redesigned parachute systems and stricter drop-testing protocols on upcoming return missions.
• The incident underscores the technical challenges and risks of reusable commercial spaceflight and reflects the expanding market for orbital memorial and research services.